Archives for “Relaxing” tag

If you take pleasure in visiting fascinating architectural objects in Warsaw or if you are an architect looking for examples of previous architectural trends and eras, make sure you see the bent Goodyear and BenQ Siemens blocks of flats near Łazienkowski Bridge.

The spring of 2013 might be an ideal moment to visit, as the time of strolling around comes again.

The buildings seem to remind of Warsaw’s past and bygone epoques and when their greyness is most intensive. The best view may be admired from the other side of the street when you stand on ul. Solec, looking from the river towards the city centre.

If you enjoy well-preserved buildings and exquisite original interiors, make sure you visit this baroque work of art (yes, the Palace in Wilanów can really be called that) and its landscaped, spacious gardens.

No matter the time of the year, Wilanów never loses its immense old-world charm: in the wintertime it is mystical and noble, spring and summer lots of tourists flock to the Palace and some refreshing relaxation can be enjoyed in the rose garden (no sitting on the lawn though), autumn is a perfect time to observe newly-weds throwing leaves around while being photographed. You will be amazed by the dignity with which even school groups move around.

Most importantly, Wilanów has an outstanding collection of works of art, including frescoes. To name just a few of that great collection: Rembrandt, van Dyck, Rafael. Of course, as you can imagine, the list is much longer but I don’t want to spoil the “Oh, look who painted this” effect for you.

Cook up is a modern and friendly response to our need to eat healthy food and to learn how to make it. I guess they fit very well in the atmosphere of new, eco and slow face of Warsaw we all want to see in the changing city.

Since I started to watch them, they have not only gained almost 2500 fans on Facebook, they have also already organised Swedish and Italian workshops and many more. On every single occasion they come up with a new idea: there was a workshop for couples on St. Valentine’s day, there was also a woman’s workshop for woman’s day. They once had a “knife skills” workshop and some cakes made freshly by the participants.

Cook Up has all the necessary equipment to bring the best to their participants. I guess I will be a frequent (and fat) user of their skills. Yummy!

This is one of the best views in the city. I know, some people look for and go to some office skyscrapers, to cafes, restaurants, hotels, but for me the 30th floor of the Palace of Culture is just like Pałac itself – good and old, full of stories and very inviting. This is also the highest building in Poland, so the occasion is double, so to say.

I can’t resist the idea that the 30th floor was supposed to be a terrace from which people of Warsaw should be watching the great Russia in the East. For those of you who don’t understand my crazy thoughts: Pałac is called “a gift from Stalin” as it was supposed to be a gift from the Russian nation for the people of Poland. The idea came to existence in Stalin’s head, and Pałac was built by Russian workers.

In summer, the 30th floor is open until 23:30.

When I lived in London my favorite spots were parks and gardens. I love the green oasis where businessmen mix with nannies while eating their lunch. For me it adds a human touch to the city.

I know that Warsaw has lots and lots of parks. When you look at the satellite map you see the sea of green, but they are not small and compact (please don’t misunderstand me – those are great, they are just not the same as my favorites in London). But Dreszer’s Park is different – it’s like small London gem inside Warsaw. With thoughtfully arranged paths, colorful flower beds, wooden benches, and shadowy trees that’s a perfect spot for a rest during a day.

And although there are not many businessmen eating their lunch (tough there are some nannies with kids they are taking care of) the atmosphere is very londonesque. Inside this gem is another one. In the green you can spot elegant white tents. This is a summery extension of nearby “Zielnik Café”. Black chandeliers hang above dark wood tables. The grill works all day, stuff in white aprons serve fresh salads, seasonal products, and home-baked cakes.

It all looks quite surreal – in the middle of the park you have another oasis, this time the one with good food and great taste. Treat it as a sophisticated version of a tea with the Mad Hatter. Here you are certainly on the other side of the Warsaw mirror.

And every Staurday you can enjoy live Jazz.